Story Structure of "The Blind Assassin"

Paper Summary:

This paper examines the structure of the novel and in particular looks at the story within a story devices. The central theme of sacrifice and of insight is explored and the writer shows how Atwood expertly keeps the intricate structure functioning at many levels and rewards the reader with the patience to unravel the symbolism and imagery of her design.

From the Paper:

"In the novel, The Blind Assassin, Margaret Atwood certainly experimented in several novels with tales within tales, supposedly factual accounts interwoven with letters, in order to enhance the main narrative, an example being the brilliant Alias Grace. However, The Blind Assassin is her most ambitious work to date, combining Iris Chase's memoir, Laura Chase's novel, the Sakiel-Norn story told by the fictional Alex Thomas, the elements of his story that also turn up in an actual book, and the newspaper articles that offer clues to the real story of the Chase's. Although initially the story is confusing because of the many threads, it is worth persevering until the point-counterpoint begins to demonstrate its own logic."

More papers on Story Structure of "The Blind Assassin":

• Analytical Essay # 7372 : "The Blind Assassin"
• Analytical Essay # 31200 : "The Blind Assassin": Theme of Blindness"
• Book Review # 111315 : "Paradise of the Blind"

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